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Cinema Preview: Six Films To See In September 2012

Who'd have thought I'd be recommending a Judge Dredd film to see this month? I even surprised myself. Read more about that film, and the likes of LCD Soundsystem documentary 'Shut Up And Play The Hits' and Cannes favourite 'Holy Motors' below. Enjoy your September cinematic experiences.

'Shut Up And Play The Hits' (4 Sept)

Admittedly, I wasn't a huge fan of this LCD Soundsystem documentary, which charts the before, during, and after of their final concert at Madison Square Garden last April. However, it's probably fair to say that many of the people reading this will be dedicated fans of the band, and consequently may well enjoy the chance to experience the triumph of their farewell performance. Full review of 'Shut Up And Play The Hits' here.

'Dredd' (7 Sept)

I hadn't particularly been excited about the forthcoming Judge Dredd reboot, starring Karl Urban in the title role. Perhaps understandably considering the uninspiring quality of the Sylvester Stallone 90s version. But the reviews have been good, suggesting it as a more accomplished version of 'The Raid'.

'Paranorman' (14 Sept)

The idea of a boy being able to talk to the dead hardly smacks of originality. But a stop-motion family animation covering the subject brings its own charm, with particular deference to the film's twisted visual style. 'Paranorman' might borrow many a horror trope but it pushes boundaries in other senses, showcasing an openly gay character - which typically caused some American critics to have a panic attack.

'Tower Block' (21 Sept)

There's something about Brits and tower blocks, what with 'The Raid', 'Attack The Block' and now the imaginatively titled 'Tower Block'. (Not forgetting the aforementioned US film, 'Dredd', also based in a similar setting.) Unsettling, brutal and intense have been words banded about for this film, suggesting a nervewracking cinematic experience.

'Holy Motors' (28 Sept)

A film for which I have deliberately avoided finding out details, an unusual move on my behalf. But the buzz for 'Holy Motors' was so enamouring at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, this unconventional French film ratcheted up to a must-see. I suggest you act similarly and prepare yourself for a potential tour de force.

'Looper' (28 Sept)

Visionary director Rian Johnson returns with his third feature film, following 'Brick' and 'The Brothers Bloom'. Eschewing his throwback style, Johnson takes on time travel in 'Looper' as Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis star as the same character - the former having to assassinate the latter.